How to Sort by Number in Google Sheets
Google Sheets is a powerful tool in the Google Suite that offers various functionalities to manage and manipulate data. One of these functionalities is the ability to sort data by number, which is particularly useful when dealing with large datasets, allowing users to organize their data in a more readable and understandable format.
Organizing numerical data in Google Sheets is a fundamental skill in streamlining data analysis. This guide takes you through effortlessly sorting your data by numbers.
Sorting Multiple Columns
To initiate the process, open the Google Sheets document housing the data you intend to sort. Select the column letter of your chosen column, prompting the entire column to be highlighted. Navigate to the top menu, click “Data,” and choose either “Sort sheet by column A-Z” or “Sort sheet by column Z-A” based on your preference for ascending or descending order. Also, taking data organization a step further, Google Sheets facilitates sorting multiple columns, a feature particularly valuable for intricate datasets. For instance, you may need to sort a list of employees initially by department and subsequently by salary.
To execute this, highlight the data range, go to the top menu, and select “Data,” then “Sort range.” In the ensuing dialog box, confirm if your data includes a header row. Under “Sort by,” designate the first column for sorting, and utilize the “Add another sort column” option to include additional criteria. Specify the order for each column and finalize the process by clicking “Sort.”
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FAQs
How do I sort numbers in ascending order in Google Sheets?
Click on the desired column letter, go to “Data” in the top menu, and choose “Sort sheet by column A-Z.”
Can I sort numbers in descending order in Google Sheets?
Select the column, click “Data,” and opt for “Sort sheet by column Z-A” in descending order.
What if I need to sort data by multiple columns in Google Sheets?
Highlight the data range, go to “Data,” and choose “Sort range,” allowing you to sort by multiple criteria.
Is it possible to sort numeric data with headers in Google Sheets?
Check the “Data has header row” box in the sorting dialog box for an accurate organization.
Can I customize the sorting order for each column when sorting by multiple criteria?
Certainly, use the “Add another sort column” option and define the order for each column before clicking “Sort.”